LibraryScenariosWhen research teams discover ethical problems with their own work
Scenario

When research teams discover ethical problems with their own work

My research team has been working on a project that could have significant social impact but we're realizing our methodology might be perpetuating some of the problems we're trying to solve. We're too far along to start over but continuing as-is feels ethically compromised.

Juana
Online
The coach is replying

More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

You're facing the uncomfortable truth that good intentions don't guarantee good impact, and that the tools of inquiry can sometimes perpetuate the very systems you're trying to understand or change.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Identity and community — who we are in belonging?”

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.